Happy Poetry Month!

April is National Poetry Month and for the past few weeks I’ve been trying to write a new poem for you guys and gals. But that didn’t happen. Sorry. Here is a poem I wrote a few years ago, though, that I hope you enjoy.

The Night Prayer

GrannyJust before AmenI ask for you

I blame you for my reluctanceTo call out a fool when I see oneOr snap my fingers to gospel songsBut I’m glad you taught meHow to mend a hole in my shirtAnd to wrap God around my shouldersWhen the heat bill couldn’t be paid

You never taught meHow to make your rice puddingOr explained why you made MamaGet rid of the babyShe just knew was a boy

Be sweetYou’d say before hanging upWhen I was away at collegeSo I’d feel guiltyEvery time I opened my legs

New friends see your photographAnd say I have your dimplesI don’t interrupt with talkOf my mother’s adoptionBecause I am certain I have your skinI have a cheek you taught me to turnPalms you taught me to press together

I still wake up at 3 a.m.To check the balance in my bank accountYour obsession with money haunts meBut you refuse toNo matter how much I beg